"The bid documents have been sent, and once we receive the notice we will go to work," City Manager John Culpepper said. "The mansion hasn't been painted in over 20 years. It's in good shape but needs a lot of work."

City leaders have kept the home true to its original form since its completion in 1847. It is the only structure in the city remaining from the Civil War Battle of Chickamauga, when it was used as a hospital for the wounded Federal troops.

The city received approval for a $25,000 grant for mansion renovations from the Appalachian Regional Commission in September 2009. It has a bid for $11,900 from local resident Steve Ashby for the painting. The city is matching the grant money for projects through its general fund.

The mansion renovations represent phase two of the grant, officials said. In addition to painting, the work will include replacing wooden lattice, windows, doors and glazing.